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Earth could be under pressure, yet optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival seeks to inspire the public to act.

The medal is to be awarded in memory of the renowned British primatologist who passed away recently. It is designed to celebrate those who protect life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners will be revealed during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the close bond she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects carried out to build an environment a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, one figure said, “Frankly, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies globally is conducting an assault on knowledge. So this undermines the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good which means we need to begin to reconsidering, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only climate change, that’s the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted this is a good time to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change how we regard wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern today involves the spread of false information. The central topic of the upcoming festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become a matter of debate where political interests is involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal will spur action. “The purpose is encouraging people to participate and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to look at working the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, but you still continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work shared optimism that “with guidance and once enabled, humans are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the programs of an institute which, in addition to its projects, helps the next generation become engaged with their community, animals, and environment.

“As my late grandmother constantly emphasized, the choices we make each day have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”